Choosing Stone Countertops

Choosing countertops is a big decision affecting your home as they are a big investment piece that needs to last a long time. Most types of stone have an unparalleled natural beauty and the variety in them makes each completely unique in terms of color and pattern. It is important to know the differences between stone types and their level of durability and maintenance. 

Marble

Marble is a fan favorite. It is stunning and can have lots of veining and color making a dramatic statement or have light veining and soft coloring for a calmer look. There is a marble for any home style to be sure. However, it is a porous stone and can stain. It is also a softer material that can scratch and chip. Care will need to be taken to prevent these things. For some the patina that develops from the wear over time is a desirable trait, but for others it is less so. It is important to know which side of the fence you fall on before choosing this material. However if chosen, it will add a high level of beauty and luxury to the space it’s in. 

Granite

Alternatively, granite is a highly durable stone and a popular choice for that as well as the variety of colors and vein patterning it has. Granite has great heat resistance and is a very hard material so it will not easily scratch or chip. It is porous so will need to be sealed regularly to prevent staining. Overall it is one of the most varied and durable options out there and will be sure to give your home a unique look.

Soapstone

Soapstone isa beautiful option for many homes. It has few options in the way of color, usually a medium gray to black, possibly hints of blue or green, and all with white veining. It gives a feeling of history to a home. With soapstone you get a nonporous surface so it doesn’t stain and doesn’t need to be sealed like other options. It is fairly durable although it can scratch. It naturally patinas and darkens over time which is often a desirable effect and can be speeded up by oiling the surface regularly. 

Quartzite

Quartzite has become really popular in the last several years and for good reason. It is a beautiful stone with a medium amount of variety in color and pattern that are sure to fit any stile. Highly durable, quartzite is almost as hard as granite. It can be susceptible to scratches and does need to be sealed regularly to keep it from staining. Overall, this is a great option for many homes to enjoy.

Quartz

Often confused with quartzite, quartz is a manmade engineered stone product vs a natural stone. Another highly popular option due to its many colors and patterns as well as it’s effortless maintenance needs. Created from by combining quartz and minerals with resin, it is a very durable product that does not easily chip or scratch and it is nonporous so will not stain easily. They are not heat resistant however and care will be needed with hot pans. If you are not into regularly sealing or oiling your countertops, this may be a good option for you.

In general some care is needed with all options, but depending on what you are open to, there are beautiful stones waiting for you. The look and feel of stone cannot be topped and will be a great addition to your home.